There are alternatives to corporal punishment

Oct 26, 2012 Letters

Dear Editor,
I have submitted a couple of articles to your newspaper (Feb, 1st and May, 30th) addressing the notion of corporal punishment and making the case for its abolition in our schools. I am pleased that the debate has begun. In fact, the discourse has gone nationally and it would only be a matter of time before our legislators in the National Assembly see it fit to bring this aspect on national policy in conformity with the international guidelines as set out in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
However, whilst the debate continues a series of concurrent activities or exercises have to commence in preparation for the cultural advancement of our nation. Therefore, in order for us to cushion the blows, I would like to offer, very broadly, a few concrete ideas that would add value and credence to the programme of activities that would eventually become necessary for effective change to foster.
I would like to propose and promote four points for the evolution of good discipline particularly in schools. Firstly, the curriculum for new teachers at the CPCE and UG will require amendment to the content, in a way that caters for a shift in cultural attitudes towards discipline in schools.
Secondly, the government must put a national embargo on corporal punishment in all schools, forthwith and allow for case studies to be conducted and the findings inform future decisions and further studies.
Thirdly, in-service teachers and administrators will benefit from on-going in-service education and training on strategies and alternatives to corporal punishment in schools.
The alternatives are numerous and worth a trial.
Finally, our parents and carers must be seen as equal partners in the business of educating young learners because in Guyana’s context many parents have no qualms inflicting brutality upon their progeny as was done to them. A programme of education will be necessary to effectively change and or sway old cultural habits, behaviour and thinking. This can be done through consultation, open community forums and PTA meetings.
I am aware of the anxieties, fears and reservations of abolishing a system we have grown accustomed to over the years but the system was hugely flawed. It is draconian; unfair, unjust, unkind, abusive and out of date. Corporal punishment in our schools must be abolished; the system must be changed for the betterment of our society and nation.
Brendon Mounter

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There are alternatives to corporal punishment

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